Full Text Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Email this article to a Colleague Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in PubMed Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to My Articles & Searches Download to citation manager Citing Articles via Google Scholar Articles by Grubaugh, A. L. Articles by Magruder, K. M. Search for Related Content PubMed Citation Articles by Grubaugh, A. L. Articles by Magruder, K. M. Minority Issues Primary Care Veterans Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Racial Differences in Psychiatric Symptom Patterns and Service Use in VA Primary Care Clinics

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess racial differences in psychopathology and service use in a sample of African-American and Caucasian veterans. METHODS: African-American (N=253) and Caucasian (N=460) veterans from primary care clinics at four Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers were compared on rates of trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other psychiatric diagnoses, functional status, and use of VA services and benefits. A cross-sectional, epidemiologic design incorporating self-report measures, structured interviews, and chart reviews was used. RESULTS: With the exception of substance abuse or dependence diagnoses and use of substance abuse treatment and urgent care services, few racial differences emerged. CONCLUSION: Overall, the findings suggest that African-American and Caucasian veterans, including those with PTSD, do not differ significantly in psychopathology or in their use of VA benefits and services.

Get information about faster international access.

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2006 American Psychiatric Association. All rights reserved.

Home | Search | Current Issue | Past Issues | Subscribe | All APPI Journals | Help | Contact Us